Understanding Model Railroad Switches

Switches (also commonly called turnouts and points) are an essential part of any train layout. Whether it's ​a single switch to a small industrial siding, a major junction between two lines, or a busy yard ladder, switches make model railroad operations possible.

Undertanding the language of switches can be a challenge. Within the switch itself, there are several important parts, each with its name.

For a review of these parts, see the glossary for the definition of a turnout. Then there are the numbers we use to identify their size. Add in special switches like slips, wyes, and curves and things can get pretty intense.

Switch Numbers

Railroads use a numbering system to classify the frog of the switch. The larger the number, the longer the frog. Modelers commonly use that same number to apply to the entire switch.

The number of a switch, or frog, is determined by the units of run required to create a divide of 1 unit. In model terms, these units are usually inches. So, if it takes six inches of length for the center lines of the two tracks to get one inch apart, you have a Number 6 switch. Note that this does not mean a Number 6 switch is six inches long. That dimension refers to the track center lines. Most Number 6 switches are about twice that length from end to end.

One common misconception about model switches is that a certain number corresponds to a particular radius of track.

Switch geometry really doesn't work this way, and in fact switches aren't a constant curve radius. There are exceptions to this; most commonly switches designed to take the place of a standard train set curve piece - 18" radius for example. These switches look very close in size to a No. 4, but are not the same.

Wye Switches

Unlike a typical "left" or "right" switch, wye switches have tracks that diverge in opposite directions simultaneously. Because of this, the numbering of a wye can be misleading. A Number 3 Wye switch sounds extremely tight, but it actually matches a Number 6 standard switch.

Wye switches get their name from their shape, and also from the track arrangement of the same name. A wye is used to turn locomotives or trains. It can be built without a wye switch, and of course wye switches can be used in other applications.

Curved Switches

On curved switches, both tracks curve in the same direction, with the inner track obtaining a sharper radius. In most cases, as with standard switches, it is not a pair of constant radii, for example 22" and 26" curves. Some manufacturers do market them this way however. Other manufacturers use numbers, while others simply say "large radius, medium radius, etc."

All of this diversity can make things very difficult when planning a layout, even for experienced modelers. Some manufacturers offer templates online, and some track planning software packages are programmed with accurate templates. In other cases, you'll have to make your template from an actual switch.

(Simply making photocopies works well.) Despite those efforts, often your only options are to buy what looks close and work around it, or build your switch, custom fit for your situation.

You can build your own switches by hand, or from kits. It is more work than simply tacking down a track piece, but the resulting look and operation of a switch that flows with the track is worth it. Like other skills, after you've done a few the work will go much faster. Given the higher cost and limited options in curved turnouts, this will likely remain a best option for some time.

"Puzzle Switches"

In addition to switches where one track diverges into two, there are a number of special switches with multiple exit points. These are sometimes collectively called "puzzle switches." These can often be found in busy junctions or terminals.

A three-way switch is a switch with three diverging routes - essentially a left and a right switch combined. These can save a lot of space in compact switching areas on model railroads.

Slip switches and double-slip switches involve a pair of tracks which cross at a diamond. In addition to the crossing, trains can also travel from one route to the other in one or two directions. These are most commonly seen in large passenger terminals where multiple arrival tracks fan out into the station platforms.